PUBLISHED MARCH 2024
Fletcher Building backs the vision from the beginning
In 1998, Sir Hugh Fletcher was one of the first people to invest in First Foundation’s vision of giving deserving and talented Kiwis a hand up to reach university. Since then, Fletcher Building has delivered a generation of impact as an outstanding Scholarship Partner. In total, the iconic organisation has supported 78 students in their pursuit of higher education and personal growth.
Steven Carden, Founder of First Foundation, says, “From day one, Fletcher Building has not only grasped what the programme is about, it’s been prepared to invest in it.”
“Twenty-five years is a long time for any relationship in business, and to have such a strong partnership of support is heartening. It’s made a difference that has reached beyond their individual students.”
A quarter decade on from the first scholar, Fletcher Building scholarship alums populate leadership teams across industries and companies. Their values, experiences and skills are shaping Aotearoa in the best possible way.
Claire Caroll, Chief People Officer at Fletcher Building explains, “First Foundation is far more than just a scholarship programme set up to provide financial support. It’s designed to offer practical work experience and mentorship for students.
Every year, Fletcher Building backs the futures of at least three students on four-year scholarships. This year, Icthus Choo will graduate with a degree in speech and language therapy degree at Massey University.
2018 Fletcher Building scholar Icthus Choo celebrates her completion with Amit Narayan and Claire Woodbury from Fletcher Building at the 2023 First Foundation Awards
She says the First Foundation journey has been absolutely life-changing. “As a high school student, there are a lot of difficulties that you go through. The First Foundation support that I received from the staff, my mentor, gave me strength to go through some of those challenging times that I had.”
“One of the great things about the Foundation Scholarship was my work experience at Fletcher Building. I loved going into the office; everyone there was really welcoming. And they taught me so many skills that I wouldn’t have picked up in school alone.”
Claire says that the time scholars spend working at Fletcher Building companies is important to both scholars and the organisation.
“The work experience we offer provides these talented young people with first-hand experience in our businesses, helping them build confidence operating in a real-world work environment.
“And having a First Foundation student is also a unique personal and professional development opportunity for our managers. They tell us they truly relish the chance to create a positive impact in the lives of their students. ”
“Importantly, we know our support doesn’t only help the students – it has powerful and long-lasting benefits for their whānau and community.
“The effort we invest now in this generation’s education will play a crucial role in shaping the leaders, government, and society of the future,” says Claire.
Icthus endorses this and is excited about the next part of her life.
“I think my future is incredibly bright, and I owe a large part of it to First Foundation. I very much look forward to using my skills to contribute to my community. And hopefully, that will look like building other young people up as well so that their futures are equally bright.”
Claire adds that Fletcher Building is proud to contribute to the First Foundation’s vision of creating a level playing field for our talented young Kiwis.
“Looking ahead, I can’t wait for many more years of collaboration between Fletcher Building and the First Foundation.”
Fletcher Building and First Foundation recently celebrated their enduring partnership. They brought together new scholars, alumni, mentors and those from the Fletcher community who hosted our students for work experience. The gathering showed how many people have contributed to the programme and how many lives it has enriched.
